Flood victims' council tax choice

The public consultation period ends on 16 January

Homeowners in Gloucestershire are being asked if they are prepared to pay more council tax to help protect the county from flash flooding.

Of three options, one offers no money for flood prevention or drainage, the second is spending £2.3m and the third £4.5m plus £25m for major projects.

The county council said it wanted people to understand the cost issue.

"Residents' feedback shows people want real investment in prevention," said a county council spokeswoman.

More than 140,000 homes were left without clean mains water after the summer flooding in Gloucestershire.

At the time, the council estimated the clean-up operation to be up to £50m.

We are giving local people real choice about extra spending on issues they tell us really matter Barry Dare, council leader

Currently Band D council tax costs £19 per week. The second option would lead to an increase of 93p per week, while the third option would mean an increase of £1.31 per week.

Councillor Julie Girling added: "Feedback from residents tells us that the fear of floods is greater than ever and they want real investment into flood prevention and this includes a programme of drain clearance.

"With no money available for protection, we now have to ask council taxpayers to help fund additional investment in flood prevention."

The public consultation ends on 16 January.

Leader of the council, Barry Dare, said: "We have an excellent record of keeping council tax down but next year is going to be a real challenge.

"We are giving local people real choice about extra spending on issues they tell us really matter."

The final budget is expected to be set on 8 February and be approved by the council on 20 February.